GASTRIC MOTILITY

Abstract

METHODS The original purpose of this study was to ascertain the effects of the various surgical procedures on the character of gastric peristalsis and the motility of the stomach. Various possible methods of study presented themselves: First, observation of the stomach by means of the roentgen ray following the operation, and comparison with the normal. Second, the insertion of a balloon into the stomach and the study of the gastric waves as transmitted by the balloon and recorded on a smoked drum after the various operations. Third, observation of the stomach in situ through a laparotomy incision after surgical operation at an earlier date, and Fourth, excision of the stomach in toto and suspension in a warm bath of Ringer's solution. The third method was selected because it furnished direct visual evidence of the phenomena that were taking place, and because it afforded more normal conditions than the last method.